Streamline Your Holidays

I might not be able to remove every stressor from your plate (I’m looking at you flight delays and that one relative with big opinions), but I can definitely help you streamline your life now to make things a lot smoother as you move through the next several weeks.

General Holiday Prep Tips

Start holiday planning early

• Make a holiday checklist before the holidays start (I put mine together in October). Begin checking off the more laborious tasks like deep cleaning the guest room(s) and bathrooms.
• Check your holiday gift supplies (wrapping paper, cards, ribbon, tape) early. Stock up now on anything you might need to avoid crowds, reduced inventory, and last-minute store trips.

Get a head start on holiday treats

• Prep holiday cookies early! Bake and freeze until ready to use.
• Check spices and baking supplies to ensure you have everything you’ll need for the rest of the season.

Plan and book “me time”

• Schedule personal time for holiday activities you enjoy and don’t forget self-care like hair, nails, etc. If it’s blocked on your calendar, you’re more likely to do it.

Pick and prep a signature dish or drink

• Choose a signature cocktail or dish you can make in bulk, freeze, and reheat/thaw later. Buying ingredients in bulk saves time and money.

Thanksgiving Tips

Prep early

• I know I’ve already said this in the previous section but I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to prepare in advance. The more you prepare now, the less you’ll have to deal with later.
• Start prepping for Thanksgiving one to two weeks ahead.

Divide and conquer

• Have your family members and friends split up and tackle parts of the meal so no one person is expected to handle everything.

Outsource and order meal items

• Order portions (or all, if you are so inclined) of the meal from your local grocery store or a favorite restaurant in advance. Many grocers and local dining establishments offer ready-made sides, appetizers, or desserts.
• If you’re bringing a dish rather than hosting, use the deli section at your local grocer. Many offer hot bars where you can grab side dishes or appetizers quickly.

Gift and Charity Tips

Make shopping easy

• Consider gifts from local retailers to support your community.
• Order gifts online for delivery to your door or send directly to loved ones. Many local stores offer shipping, so you don’t miss out on shopping local!

Give to local charities

• Many retailers participate in local giving programs. Find ones that are meaningful to you, or bring much-needed basic items (like socks or toiletries) to a donation center.

Mail Tips

Avoid the post office crunch

• Send holiday cards and packages in early December to avoid long lines and weather delays and to ensure delivery before Christmas.
• Buy stamps online to skip the line, and print package labels at home for easy drop-offs. I buy my stamps in early December, and also find that printing prepaid labels saves me tons of time at the post office.

I hope these tips help you savor Thanksgiving and the holiday spirit. I’m a big believer in minimizing stress to maximize joy. Happy holidays!